Behavioural Management

Pet Behaviour on the Central Coast

Behavioural Consultations

Does your pet suffer from separation anxiety? Have they recently become aggressive towards people or other animals? Our vets are here to help! At Killarney Vale Veterinary Clinic on the Central Coast, we can assist you with treating a broad range of animal behavioural issues including excessive barking and toilet training problems. 


If you're interested in scheduling a behavioural consultation with one of our veterinarians, kindly fill out this Dog Behaviour Assessment questionnaire. Completing and returning this comprehensive form before your appointment will enable our team to assess the patient's history, conduct a physical exam, and perform health testing. This information will guide us in determining the most appropriate course of action, which may include recommending training exercises, suggesting lifestyle changes, or referring you to a qualified trainer or behavioural specialist during your visit.


Contact us today on (02) 4334 2002 to make a booking.

Behavioural Advice For Pet Owners

Aside from teaching you training techniques to assist with managing your pet’s behaviour, our vets can also advise you on any changes that should be made at home. This may include advice on how you and your family can interact better with your companion. 


Your pet’s life at home can have a big influence on how they behave. For example, if you have an anxious or aggressive dog, it’s important you avoid putting them in situations where they feel threatened or overwhelmed. Get in touch with us if you have any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What happens when your pet comes in for surgery?

    • The vet will clip the fur around the surgery site.
    • Your pet will receive a blood test.  
    • The vet will provide a check-up – they’ll perform vitals, checking heart rate, temperature, pulse, mucus membranes & respiratory rate.
    • Your pet will undergo sedation to keep them calm, which includes pain relief.
    • The vet will place a catheter.
    • The vet will hook your pet up to IV fluids to help manage their blood pressure & recovery.
    • Your pet will undergo surgery with a nurse monitoring the anaesthetic.
    • The surgical procedure may include sutures in the skin.
    • Your pet will be placed in a heated bed & monitored by nurses when waking.
    • Your pet will likely be admitted in the morning; most are discharged in the afternoon if stable.
    • Your nurse or vet will provide a discharge form with printed instructions.
    • Monitor your pet after the procedure & attend any follow-up appointments.
  • Why do we refer pets for overnight monitoring?

    • As we’re not open 24 hours, we refer pets elsewhere for overnight monitoring so someone is available to intervene as needed.
    • Your pet may require ongoing medication through the night such as pain relief & antibiotics. 
    • Your pet may not be stable enough to go home & will need 24/7 monitoring by veterinary professionals.
    • Basic care – toileting, rotating & check drip lines.
    • Your pet will be transferred back to us in the morning if stable.
  • What happens when my pet is put to sleep?

    • The vet will give your pet a sedative to relax & reduce stress & anxiety. 
    • The vet/nurse will place a catheter in to allow vein access.
    • You will be asked to complete & sign a consent form to euthanise your pet. 
    • After the procedure, the vet will provide funeral options – home burial, group cremation or private cremation.
    • You will also have the option to be present throughout the entire procedure. 
    • The vet will go through the process & the possible effects that may occur due to the process. 
    • The vet will use an overdose of anaesthetic. 
    • The vet will check your pet’s heart to confirm death before organising post-procedure arrangements. 
    • You can take some time with your pet before you go home. 
    • You can pre-organise consent & decisions for the funeral before you get to the clinic. 
  • How do I update my pets’ details?

    • Log onto petregistry.nsw.gov.au – you will need to register.
    • Your details will need to match what is currently on the register. Same name, phone numbers etc. If details are different from those already entered on the registry, you will need to present them to the council or pound to update.
    • Add the 15-digit chip number when prompted.
    • You will then be able to update basic details – mobile, address.
    • If it’s a change of owner:           

    i. You will need to fill out a C3A change of ownership form.

    ii. The previous owner will need to sign, as well as the new owner.

    iii. If you cannot obtain a signature from the previous owner, a Statuary Declaration form signed by a J.P. would be required for council.

  • How do I know when my pet is due for vaccinations?

    • Reminders are sent via email & text message.
    • Our friendly staff can call if this does not go through via email or SMS.
    • Vaccinations are due at the same time each year, so you can write a reminder on your calendar or phone.
    • Usually coincides with your pet’s birthday.
    • If it has been more than 12 months since the last vaccination, your pet will be due for more.
  • What is the best flea and tick treatment?

    • A product that covers paralysis ticks, fleas, intestinal worms & potentially heartworm e.g., Nexgard Spectra.
    • One that is given on time religiously & that the animal accepts. 
    • One that’s easy for you to administer.  
    • Topical vs. oral – again, depending on circumstances. How often does the dog get bathed, go to the beach, etc.?
    • Monthly vs. three-monthly vs. six-monthly. 
    • One that is affordable.
  • What is the best heartworm prevention?

    1. One that is given on time, every time.
    2. Monthly treatment.
    3. 12-month injection.
    4. NOT daily tablets.
  • How do I know when it’s time to put my pet to sleep

    1. We have a questionnaire to help with this process & help you make the right decision.

Contact our friendly team today for bookings and enquiries.

Share by: